September 27, 2021
Welcome, students, to the first day of fall term.
Whether you are a new Duck or a returning student, your academic journey is unlike any other class in UO history. You’ve shown incredible determination and overcome immense challenges in order to pursue your education.
We are all so glad you are here. I am very proud of each of you. As we come back together, the health and safety of our campus community is our highest priority. We have redoubled our prevention strategies. We are armed with strong prevention tools. Effective vaccinations and high vaccination rates are the most important.
Our comprehensive safety plans include required vaccinations and masking, required weekly testing for anyone with an exemption, free COVID-19 testing, rigorous case management, improved building ventilation, and proof of vaccination for large public events.
COVID-19 isn’t going away any time soon, and we must all stay vigilant.
Everything you need to know about our COVID-19 prevention plan, your responsibilities, and the many support, wellness, and mental health resources available are on our COVID-19 website and in our weekly COVID-19 and Quick Quack emails.
We are all adapting to this new normal. In addition, nearly half of you are attending in-person college classes for the first time. We know this is a lot!
We are committed to your academic success. I encourage you to take part in our many “Get to know UO” activities, reach out to your professors, and get involved in all the enriching activities on campus. Also, if you have questions, need help, or are looking for ways to connect, do not wait to reach out. Talk to your advisor, a resident assistant, instructor, the dean of students’ office, or one of the many other UO offices or staff members dedicated to your success. Also, remember to treat each other with respect.
We are a community that takes care of each other—that flocks together—to learn, discover, create, solve problems, and serve our community.
We all play a role in protecting ourselves and each other, and together let’s make this a great year!
Go Ducks!
Michael H. Schill
President and Professor of Law